Flying Fijians mentally locked in for England clash – FBC News
[Source: Fiji Rugby/ Facebook] FIJI Water Flying Fijians coach Mick Byrne says his side is in a strong mental space ahead of tomorrow’s showdown against England at Twickenham. Byrne highlighted the team’s focus and clarity, pointing to a meeting run entirely by the players themselves yesterday as a sign of their maturity and preparation. “The players basically ran the meeting and they ran the training session… it was exciting to see them out on the track today going at 100 mile an hour.” Article continues after advertisement The Flying Fijians completed a focused camp last week that allowed them to fine-tune strategy and build confidence. With the team aligned on messaging and fully engaged in their preparations, Byrne believes Fiji are ready to execute their game plan and rise to the challenge on rugby’s biggest stage. The side will meet England at 5.40am tomorrow. You can catch the delayed coverage of this match on FBC Sports at 8pm on Monday. Stream the best of Fiji on VITI+. Anytime. Anywhere.
Flying Fijians ready to run it back at Twickenham – FBC News
[Source: Fiji Rugby/ Facebook] FIJI Water Flying Fijians coach Mick Byrne says his side will take the confidence of past success into tomorrow morning’s showdown against England at Twickenham. Byrne believes last year’s historic victory at the same venue and their gallant World Cup quarter-final display have reshaped the team’s mindset, proving Fiji can stand tall against the rugby giants. He says the players are no longer daunted by big occasions and that familiarity with the Twickenham stage gives them the composure to play their natural game. Article continues after advertisement “I think what it does is it gives you the feeling that you’ve been on a big stage against a big team. It takes away that element of players being overawed by the occasion, which keeps a real good focus on our ability to play our game.” Byrne acknowledged England’s depth and the power of their home crowd, but says Fiji is ready to meet the challenge head-on when the whistle blows at 5.40am tomorrow. The coach says that they have received a lot of well wishes and is urging Fijians to cheer them on tomorrow morning before starting their day. He says the side is aware that fans back home will be up in numbers to watch the game and adds that is a great source of motivation for the team. You can catch the delayed coverage of this match on FBC Sports at 8pm on Monday. Stream the best of Fiji on VITI+. Anytime. Anywhere.
Development pathway paying off for future players – FBC News
Fijian Drua CEO Mark Evans Fijian Drua CEO Mark Evans says the promotion of four players from the club’s development program into the 2026 Super Rugby Pacific squad is proof that the franchise’s long-term investment in local talent is starting to bear fruit. Evans highlighted that nearly a quarter of the 2026 Drua squad has now come through the club’s own development system, a remarkable achievement for a franchise that only launched its development program three years ago.’ “We’re a start-up club, and there are 39 players in the main squad this year. Of those 39, 10 have come out of development. We’ve only had a development squad for three years, so that’s a pretty decent output.” Article continues after advertisement He said the success of the program serves as an important motivator for the next generation of young Fijian players currently in the Drua’s foundation and academy pathways. “It’s very important for the boys who are there now to be able to look up and say, ‘Two years ago, there were players sitting where I’m sitting now who are in the squad today. And for those in our younger age groups, the ones still in school or training in our camps, it’s vital they can see that pathway clearly working.” Evans cited examples such as Philip Baselala, who spent three years in the development squad before earning promotion, and Mesake Vocevoce, who rose rapidly through the ranks after just a few months. The Drua’s development system continues to play a central role in the club’s mission to create a sustainable player pathway from grassroots to the professional level, ensuring that Fiji’s homegrown talent remains at the heart of the team’s future. Stream the best of Fiji on VITI+. Anytime. Anywhere.
Argentina calls up Lionel Messi with Miami still in playoffs – FBC News
[Source: Reuters] Inter Miami superstar Lionel Messi and teammate Rodrigo De Paul, whose club is in the first round of the MLS playoffs, have been selected for their home country Argentina’s friendly match against Angola next week. Argentina national team coach Lionel Scaloni named the forward and midfielder to the 24-player roster for the Nov. 14 friendly. Inter Miami and Nashville FC split the first two matches of their MLS Cup playoff series, with the decisive Game 3 on Saturday in Fort Lauderdale, Fla. Should Inter Miami advance, the Eastern Conference semifinals would not begin until Nov. 22 or 23. Article continues after advertisement The pair did represent Argentina for two friendlies in October during the MLS regular season, with Messi playing in one and De Paul both matches against Venezuela and Puerto Rico. Scaloni apparently took into account Argentina’s Primera Division not pausing matches during the November international window and did not select any players from those squads. “We spoke with Scaloni to ensure that players from Argentine football teams that are playing decisive matches in the Clausura Tournament are not called up,” said Argentine soccer federation president Claudio Tapia said in an ESPN report on Thursday. Argentinian Emiliano “Dibu” Martinez, 33, a goalkeeper for Aston Villa of the Premier League, did not get the call from the national team for the friendly. Messi, the MLS Golden Boot winner and MLS MVP favorite, was selected to the an MLS Best XI list this season. With 29 goals and 19 assists, the Inter Miami forward was one goal contribution shy of the league-record 49 set by Carlos Vela in 2019 and could be the first back-to-back MVP in league history. Stream the best of Fiji on VITI+. Anytime. Anywhere.
Twelve Teams for National Club Championship – FBC News
[Source: Fiji Football/Facebook] Twelve football clubs from across the country have been confirmed to compete in the 2025 National Club Championship zonal playoffs as the battle heats up for a spot in the final stage next month. In the Northern Division, defending champions Northpole FC from Labasa will face Legends FC of Taveuni in a one-off zonal playoff, with the winner advancing to represent the North in the national finals. The Southern Division will feature six clubs; Suva’s Narere Buses Combine FC, Rewa’s Combine Verata FC, Nasinu’s Friends United, Tailevu Naitasiri’s Police FC, Navua’s League FC, and Lami’s Lami Rangers. Article continues after advertisement The southern teams will be grouped into two pools of three, with each team playing two matches. The group winners will progress directly to the NCC finals, while the runners-up will play off for the third and final southern qualification spot. Over in the Western Division, four teams have secured their place; Ba’s 4R FC, Lautoka’s Ray United FC, Nadi’s Army FC, and Nadroga’s Downtown FC. They will compete in a round-robin format, with the top two teams earning a place in the national playoffs. The Southern Zone playoffs will take place at the Fiji FA Academy in Vatuwaqa from December 5–8, while the Western Zone matches will be held at the Fiji FA Academy in Ba from December 4–7. In the North, the playoff between Northpole FC and Legends FC is scheduled for December 6 at Bocalevu Primary School in Labasa. The National Club Championship Final Play-offs will be held from December 11–14, with the venue yet to be confirmed. Stream the best of Fiji on VITI+. Anytime. Anywhere.
Hero’s welcome for Delai – FBC News
[Source: Fiji Football/Facebook] Fiji’s FIFA referee Torika Delai received a hero’s welcome at Nadi International Airport after making history at the FIFA Under 17 Women’s World Cup in Morocco. Delai, who officiated in two matches Norway versus Ecuador and Canada versus Zambia became only the second Fijian female referee to take charge at a FIFA World Cup tournament. Speaking on arrival, Delai described the moment as a dream come true. Article continues after advertisement “It was a dream come true to represent Fiji and the Oceania region on the world stage. Officiating at that level is never easy, but the support from my colleagues, mentors, and my country kept me strong.” She adds that the experience had reignited her drive to help inspire the next generation of women in football. [Source: Fiji Football/Facebook] Fiji Football Association Women’s Vice President Mere Vuda, who led the welcoming party, says Delai’s achievement was a proud milestone for the sport. “Torika has set a remarkable example. Her success shows that our referees can perform at the highest level internationally.” Delai’s journey, marked by dedication and perseverance, continues to pave the way for more women in Fiji and the Pacific to take up the whistle and follow in her footsteps. Stream the best of Fiji on VITI+. Anytime. Anywhere.
Mataele and Fines-Leleiwasa to arrive next month – FBC News
Manasa Mataele and Issak Fines-Leleiwasa Incoming Fijian Drua winger Manasa Mataele is wasting no time getting ready for his new chapter with the club, with head coach Glen Jackson revealing that the former Crusaders and Western Force speedster is “super keen” to link up with the squad. Jackson said Mataele, fresh off a Bunnings NPC title win with Canterbury, has been in regular contact with the Drua coaching staff, eager to arrive in Fiji as soon as possible. “Manasa is super keen to be here. He’s been on the phone a lot, asking to come earlier. Obviously, after a great win from Canterbury and he played unbelievably, I thought, in the final.” Article continues after advertisement The Drua coach confirmed that Mataele will join the team at the beginning of December, while fellow new signing Issak Fines-Leleiwasa, the former Wallaby halfback, will arrive after Christmas due to commitments in Australia. “Issak had an Australian competition that he was with the Force, so he will join us after Christmas in terms of the contracting around that.” Jackson added that while enthusiasm is high among the new arrivals, ensuring proper recovery and conditioning remains a key focus. “We talk about players being keen, but also about the rest period they need to make sure they’re performing properly at the right times.” The two new signings are part of the Drua’s strengthened 2026 Shop N Save Super Rugby Pacific squad, as the team builds towards another competitive season. Stream the best of Fiji on VITI+. Anytime. Anywhere.
Jersey peeling won’t be an issue says Flying Fijians manager – FBC News
FIJI Water Flying Fijians team manager Josaia Tuinamata has reassured fans there will be no repeat of the jersey mishap that saw numbers peeling off during their last outing. Concerns were raised after the numbers on the back of the players’ jerseys began peeling during the Pacific Nations Cup final. Tuinamata says the team has brought in heat-press machines to print the numbers themselves from inside their hotel, ensuring they stay on for the full match. Article continues after advertisement Meanwhile, coach Mick Byrne says the Remembrance Day poppy has been added to their blue jerseys, as required by England Rugby. “We’re celebrating the memory of people who created an opportunity for us to live the lives we live, and it’s important that we honour that with full respect.” He adds that wearing the poppy carries great significance for the players, as it honours those who sacrificed for future generations. Byrne says the team will proudly wear it in England as a mark of respect and gratitude. The Flying Fijians will meet England at 5.40am on Sunday. You can catch the delayed coverage on FBC Sports at 8pm on Monday. Stream the best of Fiji on VITI+. Anytime. Anywhere.
Fiji Show Heart Despite Defeat to Belgium at FIFA U-17 World Cup 2025
Fiji’s U-17 side displayed courage and determination despite falling 7–0 to a strong and clinical Belgium outfit in their second Group Stage match of the FIFA U-17 World Cup 2025™. Belgium started the match at a relentless pace, scoring twice within the opening ten minutes through Noah Fernandez and Pablo Capilla Rivera. The European side continued to dominate possession and added further goals before the break via Rene Mitongo (22’, 34’) and Loic Alvarez (29’) to establish a 5–0 halftime lead. Fiji battled hard to contain Belgium’s fluid attacking play, with goalkeeper Melvin Prakash producing several vital saves to deny further damage in the first half. After the break, the Fijians regrouped with a stronger defensive structure and greater discipline. Defenders Farhaan Khan and Sialesi Vatanatawake stood firm at the back, helping Fiji absorb continuous Belgian pressure. The second half grew more physical as both teams fought hard — Belgium were reduced to ten men following a red card for violent conduct, before Fiji’s Teimana Goundar was sent off late for a second yellow card. Belgium eventually extended their lead with Mitongo completing his hat-trick in the 77th minute, before adding a fourth goal in the 86th to seal a comprehensive 7–0 victory.
Byrne names side to hunt another English scalp – FBC News
Source: Fiji Rugby / Facebook FIJI Water Flying Fijians coach Mick Byrne has named a powerful match-day squad to take on England in their much-anticipated clash at Twickenham on Sunday morning. Byrne has gone with a blend of experience and flair, backing his men to rise to the occasion against one of rugby’s traditional powerhouses. The front row sees Eroni Mawi at loosehead prop, Tevita Ikanivere at hooker and Mesake Doge at tighthead prop, while Isoa Nasilasila partners Temo Mayanavanua in the second row. Article continues after advertisement In the loose forwards, Kitione Salawa starts at blindside flanker, Elia Canakaivata on the openside and Vilame Mata anchors the pack at number eight. In the halves, Simione Kuruvoli takes charge at scrum-half with Caleb Muntz directing play at fly-half. The midfield features the hard-running Josua Tuisova at inside centre and Kalaveti Ravouvou outside him, while Jiuta Wainiqolo and Selestino Ravutaumada provide pace on the wings and Salesi Rayasi slots in at fullback. On the bench, Byrne has named Zuriel Togiatama, Haereiti Hetet, Samuela Tawake, Mesake Vocevoce, Motikiai Murray, Sam Wye, Isaiah Armstrong-Ravula and Sireli Maqala, offering strong impact options across the field. The side will play England at Twickenham stadium at 5.40am. Stream the best of Fiji on VITI+. Anytime. Anywhere.